Hello Fall!

 In Family, Kids


A tree with leaves on it and the sun shiningWhere Did The Summer Go? Tips For A Stress-Free School Year

Living in the northern hemisphere we make the most of the summers, and just when we think we have thawed out from a freezing winter, fall comes round again. Not just the autumn; it is also time to return to school for a new year.

Transitioning into the fall schedule will come more easily with a positive attitude and organization.  Tips on how to have a (somewhat) stress free school year for your teens and family might just be the thing you need right now.

Returning to school often means making new friends, meeting new teachers, and possibly even starting at a new school. This can be cause for anxiety for parents as well as the child. Start off on the right foot in order to minimize stress.

Routines And Organization

Routines are good to have, so, get back into school routines as quickly as possible. Adjust bedtimes, meal times, homework times and of course time for a little fun. A special place with no distractions, and the correct study aids could help with the homework routine. Children perform far better in school if they have established a home learning routine, also encourage reading, and spend time reading with them. Rehearse these new routines before the child goes back to start the fall semester.

Stress that organization is good, and offer them aids to ensure that their work is kept organised – for example color-coded binders or files, and a calendar for test preparation. Kids enjoy having new school supplies, it makes them feel secure and organized.

Educational Goals

Set goals together with the child – this should be done at the start of the new school year and be easily achievable. For example preparing for tests in advance, handing in all homework timely, and or working hard towards getting an “A†in a subject the child enjoys.  Choose some books read at home, and make it a goal to get through them before the end of the year.

Meet The Teacher

Establish a relationship with the school the teacher – meet them at the start of the year. They are a valuable resource to have, especially if the child experiences any difficulties. Check out the new classrooms too.

Most importantly it is good to have open dialogue with the child. Encourage them to share any fears or nervousness that they have on any aspect of transitioning back into the academic year. Visit the school with them before school is in, especially if they are changing schools. Check out the class schedule together and talk about any changes you plan to make in their normal routine.

Make it a new adventure for them – something exciting, and allay their “what ifsâ€.  Ask them what they are anxious about (presuming they are), and work through this with them, no matter how small the concern may be. It is really all about being prepared, being practical, and giving your child your positive, alert attention, so, that they know they are not only heard, but listened to as well.

 

 

 

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